Chargers fans flock to England to cheer on team

Packed in her suitcase for the flight to London where she'll watch the Chargers play New Orleans on Sunday were at least eight to 10 other Chargers shirts and jerseys in a variety of colors.

“Isn't that what we're up supposed to do?” said the Downey resident. “Represent?”

Malone is one of more than 350 Chargers fans making their way to the game at Wembley Stadium.

Gil Saidy, president of Aer Travel, said at least 175 fans are London-bound as part of a tour the company organized. Chargers spokesman Bill Johnston said via e-mail that at least another 175 fans have indicated they'll be crossing the pond to watch the game in person.

The Aer Travel trip cost $3,900 or $4,500 per person. In addition to air fare, hotel accommodations and a game ticket, the fee included a Wembley Stadium tour, meeting Chargers players and coaches, a gift bag and ground transportation.

Sounding very much like a head coach, Malone, a season ticket holder since 1995, said the game is her focus for traveling.

“The rest is extra,” she said.

Not so for 60-year-old Norm Sharoff of Poway, a third-year season ticket holder. Sharoff used to live in London and plans to visit old haunts.

“What London offers that San Diego doesn't is a cosmopolitan city,” Sharoff said. “Walking around the streets there are various shops, restaurants and people. And the theater is excellent.”

Sharoff plans to take a one-day trip to Belgium during his stay.

Warren Knox will land in London at noon Saturday with his 10-year-old son, Alex. Knox grew up in San Diego but now lives in Cocoa Beach, Fla.

“We can't wait,” said Knox, who calls himself a die-hard fan. “It's going to be the high point of the season.” He said that as soon as he heard the Chargers were playing abroad, he begged his wife to go.

“This is going to be a lifetime memory with my son,” Knox said. “He'll remember this when he's 90 years old.”

His son can't wait.

“I heard it's going to be really cold,” Alex said. “I'm going to say the Chargers are going to win by a field goal.”